Technical Tips
What is Nuclear Power?
The process yielding nuclear power is called nuclear fission and was discovered by German physicist Otto Hahn and his assistant Fritz Strassmann back in 1938. This article is well-timed because the two discovered the energy generated by nuclear fission during a Christmas vacation. Nuclear fission splits the atoms of heavy metals The scientists discovered…
Read MoreRadiation and Pregnancy
If you’re planning to get pregnant, or you’re currently pregnant, pay attention to your occupational and environmental surroundings. Infinite studies find negative correlations between radiation exposure and higher infertility rates, increased pregnancy risks, as well as higher rates of chromosomal and genetic abnormalities. For more detailed information about radiation and its effects on pregnancy, visit…
Read MoreWhat is Radon?
Radon is a naturally occurring element that off-gases from the earth’s crust, as well as part of the radioactive decay process of other radioactive elements. It’s also the leading cause of lung cancer in non-smokers, and smokers who live or work in a building with high radon levels experience much higher rates of lung cancer…
Read MoreWhat is Radioactive Decay?
The majority of the elements in the periodic table are “stable,” and non-radioactive. Some, however, are unstable and experience a process called radioactive decay, during which they emanate ionizing radiation. Unlike other forms of radiation, ionizing radiation is harmful to the human body because it alters our DNA. Longterm and/or overexposure to ionizing radiation can…
Read MoreUV Radiation: What You Need to Know
There is no way to avoid sources of radiation if you live on planet earth. From the ultra-violet (UV) radiation we’re exposed to from the sun to cosmic, micro- and other forms of radiation – we encounter small and manageable radioactive doses as a part of daily life. Fortunately, a little education and some basic,…
Read MoreWhat Are the Three Principles of Radiation Protection
Radiation protection is a critical aspect of safety in various industries, especially nuclear energy and healthcare. This article expands upon the three fundamental principles of radiation safety, grounded in the broader paradigm of ALARA (As Low as Reasonably Achievable), a concept widely recognized in radiation safety protocols. The principle of ALARA was established as a…
Read MoreWhat is Cosmic Radiation?
The term cosmic radiation is an umbrella term, encompassing all of the radioactive sources in the universe. Fortunately, here on earth, our atmosphere serves as one of the most powerful radiation shielding and protective products – and it’s free. That’s one of the reasons why it’s so important to prevent the destruction of the earth’s…
Read MoreIs Microwave Radiation Dangerous?
Microwaves have been around since the 1960s, but they have long-suffered from erroneous suspicions that their radioactive mechanisms are harmful. This is understandable since the word radiation inspires caution and fear for many. However, microwaves operate using non-ionizing radiation. This means it doesn’t harm or scramble cellular DNA, nor does it leave any radioactive residue…
Read MoreDisposing of Radioactive Waste
Ideally, any industry, university lab, manufacturing plant, medical facility or nuclear power plant should have a Radiation Safety Officer and established safety plan for disposing of radioactive waste. Failure to do so has disastrous effects on plants, animals and humans who are unknowingly exposed. Take, for instance, the city of Goias, Brazil – where robbers…
Read MoreWell-Stocked Radioactive Spill Kits Save Lives
When a radioactive spill or accident takes place, a quick and practiced response is a must. However, responders can only do so much if they don’t have a proper radioactive spill kit on hand. What’s in Your Radioactive Spill Kit? The combination of a well-designed, organized and accessible Radioactive Spill Kit, and the implementation…
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